Texas Deploys Emergency Resources in Response to Tropical Storm Harold

AUSTIN, TX – August 22, 2023 – As Tropical Storm Harold moves across South Texas, Governor Greg Abbott has announced the deployment of emergency response resources to assist affected areas. The Governor urged residents to remain weather-aware and heed guidance from local officials, emphasizing the importance of safety with the message “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”

The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) has deployed the following resources:

• Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force One): Swift Water Rescue Boat Squads and a Flood Water Boat Squad.
• Texas National Guard: Ground Transportation Platoons with High Profile Vehicles.
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Texas Game Warden Search and Rescue Boat Teams.
• Texas Department of Public Safety: Tactical Marine Unit Boats and Rescue Swimmers, Search and Rescue Aircraft with Hoist Capability.

Additional actions have been taken, and resources have been rostered for use if needed, including:

• Texas Department of Transportation: High profile vehicles and personnel monitoring road conditions.
• Texas Department of State Health Services: Texas Emergency Medical Task Force Severe Weather Packages.
• Public Utility Commission of Texas: Power outage monitoring and coordination with utility providers.

For up-to-date road conditions, residents are encouraged to check drivetexas.org. State officials will continue to monitor the situation closely and coordinate with local agencies to provide necessary support.